National World Top Stories Update Monday 17 November, 2025
National World Top Stories Update Monday 17 November, 2025
The England international, who was also absent for the most recent World Cup qualifiers, has been injured since September 20, when a persistent groin injury reared its ugly head.
It’s an injury he sustained during the Club World Cup in the summer, but had recovered during pre-season and started in the Premier League until being forced off in Chelsea’s 2-1 defeat to Manchester United.
In his absence, Chelsea have slipped from second to third in the league, with striker Joao Pedro’s goal contributions drying up. Midfielder Enzo Fernandez had been playing higher up, but the Argentinian is now also nursing a knee injury.
Cole Palmer remains sidelined with a groin issue, but is expected back soon.placeholder image
Cole Palmer remains sidelined with a groin issue, but is expected back soon. | Getty Images
Initially, it was thought Palmer would be ready this month, but in October manager Enzo Maresca confirmed the attacking midfielder would be out for much longer.
He said: “I was wrong - unfortunately, he needs to be out probably six more weeks.
“We try to protect Cole as much as we can. The most important thing is when he comes back, he is fully fit.
“The medical staff are not magicians. We hope six weeks are enough. We need to see it step-by-step. For sure, he's going to be okay.
“He looks relaxed. He has tried to recover from the injury and is doing all the therapy.”
This press conference was in mid-October, and there is speculation that Palmer is close to a return for the Blues.
While he is unlikely to feature against Burnley this weekend, and Chelsea’s following Premier League match against Arsenal on November 30 might be to early as well.
After that, Chelsea travel to Leeds on Wednesday, December 3, and that could be the opportune time to ease his way back into the starting XI.